What This Part Is — and Isn't
The Siemens 3VA1116-1AA36-0AE0 is a SENTRON switch disconnector in a 3-pole MCCB-style housing rated for 160 A continuous current (Iu). Unlike a molded-case circuit breaker, this unit carries no overload or short-circuit protection — it is a pure disconnect switch for isolating a circuit under load or no-load conditions. The MCCB form factor means it occupies the same panel footprint and uses the same mounting accessories as the 3VA1 breaker family, so it drops into existing cutouts and bus-bar arrangements without rework.
Key Ratings and What They Mean for Fit
Rated continuous current Iu of 160 A governs conductor sizing and upstream protective device selection. Max AC operational voltage is 690 V, and max DC operational voltage is 500 V. Four auxiliary switches HQ (high-quantity) provide 4 CO contacts for status feedback to a PLC or indication panel. That is a generous auxiliary count — most switch disconnectors ship with one or two. The HQ designation means the switches are rated for higher electrical endurance than standard auxiliary blocks, making this unit suitable for applications with frequent status polling or where the auxiliary circuit itself sees switching duty. Power loss is rated at a maximum of 38 W at rated current — a figure to factor into enclosure thermal calculations, particularly in sealed or high-ambient panels. Operating temperature range is -25 °C to +70 °C, with storage from -40 °C to +80 °C, so the part suits unheated electrical rooms and outdoor enclosures within those limits.